A 91原创 builder is doing his part to reverse damage he said has been done to the home building industry by 鈥渋nexperienced and unscrupulous contractors.鈥�

鈥淭he industry needs professional development for builders, renovators and contractors in addition to consumer education and protection,鈥� said Larry Clay, president of Clay Construction.

He is the first to be certified a Master Residential Builder.

This distinction, granted by the Canadian Home Builders鈥� Association of BC, acknowledges Clay鈥檚 commitment to continuing education and professional development in his field of building and renovating homes.

He had to successfully completed all required courses in the CHBA BC continuing education program; courses focus on many aspects of the residential construction industry in B.C., including the BC Building Code, energy-efficient building methods, site safety, and construction law.

The certification program is designed for students who want to stay current on industry trends, technical advances, code developments and best practices, explained Clay, who was also recognized as the 2015 Greater Vancouver Home Builders鈥� Association member of the year.

鈥淐HBA BC provides ample opportunities for builders to develop their business skills to better serve the consumer,鈥� Clay said.

鈥淭hank you CHBA BC for being an industry leader and providing the master builder program for professionals that desire to improve their service to their clients,鈥� he added.

Clay is also recognized as a certified housing professional and a certified renovation professional.

The CHBA BC courses are rigorous and require a significant time commitment, explained CHBA BC鈥檚 CEO Neil Moody.

鈥淭hose who complete the courses have demonstrated a thorough knowledge of all aspects of residential construction combined with dedication, professionalism, passion for their industry and the business of building homes,鈥� Moody added.

鈥淭he Master Builder certification is the highest level offered by our association, and we congratulate Larry Clay of Clay Construction for being our first builder member to achieve this designation,鈥� Moody concluded.

Clay completes custom homes and renovations in every area of Vancouver, and has been a member of the Greater Vancouver Home Builders鈥� Association since 2005 鈥� currently serves as the organization鈥檚 second vice-chair.

Since joining the GVHBA, he has also won several Georgie Awards, including 2013 Custom Home Builder of the Year, and the 2014 Customer Choice Georgie Awards Powered by Avid.